Aeroflot says pax must change their face mask every 3 hours during flights (Aeroflot Face Mask Policy)

Russian airline Aeroflot isn’t messing around. Their new face mask and glove policy is one of the more stringent policies put forth by a major carrier. We examine the Aeroflot face mask policy so you can be ready for your next flight.

Nearly every airline has implemented a variety of new health and safety measures designed to reduce the risk of infection and inspire confidence in passengers and employees.

Most policies contemplate face coverings in some way, shape, or form. For example, Delta has implemented a fairly robust and clear policy for its guests and crew. British Airways, on the other hand, has taken a more lax approach.

Aeroflot, Russia’s flagship airline, however, has taken a more robust approach. We examine the Aeroflot face mask policy in all it’s classic Russian strength.

Aeroflot Face Mask Policy – they aren’t messing around

Aeroflot appears to have one of the more restrictive face mask policies of all the major airlines thus far. The Aeroflot face mask policy notes:

“Passengers will be required to board the plane wearing facemasks and gloves and must wear them for the duration of the flight. Passengers must replace masks with fresh ones every three hours while aboard. If needed, cabin crew will provide facemasks.“

Notably, two aspects of Aeroflot’s policy include the requirement for passengers to change their face mask every three hours if necessary and the requirement to wear gloves during the entirety of flight.

The new policies extend beyond even face coverings and gloves providing some interesting rules for Aeroflot flights including:

Passengers can only leave their seats to use the lavatories
All “outwear” (e.g. coats) must be stored in the overhead bin and cannot be removed during the flight

Read the full details of the policy here.

It’s unclear how Aeroflot will actually enforce some of these policies in flight? Will they announce mask-changing windows and attempt to physically inspect each passenger for a new mask? The need to change your mask may also limit passengers ability to bring a reusable mask for travel and instead be forced to buy disposable masks instead. And then, will they collect and dispose of the no-longer-usable masks?

It’s clear there are some practical limitations of this policy and perhaps it’s more aspirational than enforceable.

We’d love to hear from any recent Aeroflot passengers who’ve experience these new rules. Drop us a comment below about your experiences.

FAQs about Aeroflot Face Mask Policy

We’ve tried to answer as many frequently asked questions about the Aeroflot Face Mask Policy below.

Do I have to wear a face mask on Aeroflot?

Yes, Aeroflot now requires passengers to wear a face mask or face covering for the duration of all Aeroflot flights.

Does Aeroflot give passengers a free face mask?

No, Aeroflot does not currently provide passengers free face masks.

Do I have to wear gloves on Aeroflot flights?

Yes, currently Aeroflot requires passengers to wear gloves throughout the entirety of their flight.

Can I take my mask off on an Aeroflot flight?

Masks must be maintained throughout the entirety of the flight with one exception: meal service.

Do I have to change my face mask every 3 hours on Aeroflot flights?

Yes, Aeroflot currently requires passengers to change their face mask every 3 hours. It is unclear how Aeroflot will enforce this rule.

What are other airlines doing?

Most airlines have increased their health and safety measures for passengers and crew alike. We’ve been building out our database of airline face mask policies. Be sure to check them all out:

Be sure to check out all of travel related content including some of the stories, tips, guides and more listed below:

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